This Margate apartment is set within a Grade II listed converted chapel, dating back to 1811. The high ceilings and loft-style columns allowed us to be playful with the scale, so that we could create a feeling of space. We selected mainly vintage furniture and a fresh colour palette – designed to give a feel of being transported to a sunny holiday in Ibiza or Mexico – despite the lack of natural light. The use of painted arches throughout the apartment are a nod to the Chapel’s original arched windows. The shape is carried through the apartment; from the scalloped splashback in the kitchen, to the marble detailing in the bathroom.

The thoughtful design of the interconnected spaces extends to the living room's connection with the exterior through a bench seat in the window. This strategic addition not only enhances the living room's aesthetic appeal but also fosters a tangible link to the outdoors. The bench seat becomes a cozy spot, offering a panoramic view and inviting natural light into the living space. This connection to the exterior adds a refreshing touch to the living room, creating a seamless integration between indoor and outdoor environments. Whether used as a contemplative nook or a sunny reading spot, the bench seat reinforces the idea of a home that not only embraces eclectic design but also celebrates a harmonious connection with nature.

The starting point for this area was the original 1950's freestanding bar - which we loved! The colours throughout the space and the curves that bounce through the design stop the space feeling rigid. The addition of the Oak room divider creates a separate space without losing any light. A gorgeous corner looking out onto the garden.

Großer Gruppenraum

Photography by Debi Treolar Modern Vintage Style by Emily Chalmers Ryland, Peters & Small www.rylandpeters.com

Living area with cork floor, steps and built in oak bench seating

A charming mix of an extrovert and an introvert. They desire a space that harmoniously blends aspects of their personalities — a place that's perfect for hosting lively parties while still being a soothing retreat to unwind in. They aspire for an environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient home. Plenty of natural light is a must, and they crave a space that's versatile enough to cater to various tasks, yet cleverly designed to provide just the right ambiance. Our lovely clients crave a seamless continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. They yearn for a space that's not only fashionable and trendy but also feels like a warm embrace, providing them with an oasis of peace and relaxation. In short, they want a space that's eco-friendly, stylish, flexible, and cosy — an ideal blend of all their desires.

The beautiful, light, first floor living area Richard Downer Photography

Photographie Jérémy Haureils ©. Senecio ©.

Living room in a new extension with double panel sliding doors on each side. Red and blue arm chairs. Cork florring. Photo by Chris Snook

The living room boasts a stunning blush pink walls that adds a touch of warmth and femininity to the space. The interior design is calm and relaxing, providing a perfect retreat from the outside world. The living room overlooks a tranquil garden, offering a peaceful ambiance that's hard to resist. The flooring is made of eco-friendly cork, which is not only sustainable but also durable and comfortable underfoot. The window treatment features rich aubergine accents that add a pop of colour and elegance to the room. The handmade lampshade by Copper Dust is a standout piece that adds a unique touch of personality and creativity to the space. Overall, this living room is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and eco-friendliness.

The narrow existing hallway opens out into a new generous communal kitchen, dining and living area with views to the garden. This living space flows around the bedrooms with loosely defined areas for cooking, sitting, eating.

living room and kitchen

Charlie Kinross Photography * --------------------------------------------- Rear Living Room with recycled hardwood shelving, and Australian Hardwood double glazed windows

Shania Shegedyn Photography

Olaf Malzahn